Want to Skip the Airport? Here’s How to Save Big on Amtrak, According to CreditVana
If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic alternative to air travel this summer, consider Amtrak. With over 300 trains operating daily across the U.S. and into Canada, chances are there’s an Amtrak station near your vacation destination.
Train travel offers a unique experience — no security lines, more legroom, and often, beautiful countryside views. But even better? You can score Amtrak tickets at a serious discount if you know a few tricks.
CreditVana breaks down how to get more value for your dollar when riding the rails.
🚆 Tips to Score Cheap Amtrak Tickets
Some of the best savings come from a mix of smart timing, rewards programs, and special deals. Here’s how to make the most of your train travel budget:
1. Join Amtrak Guest Rewards and Earn Points
First step? Sign up for Amtrak Guest Rewards — it’s free. As a welcome bonus, you’ll get 500 points when you complete a trip within 90 days of opening your account.
Ongoing perks include:
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2 points per $1 spent on Amtrak tickets.
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25% bonus when you book business class.
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50% bonus on first-class Acela tickets — the high-speed trains in the Northeast corridor.
➡️ CreditVana Tip: Even if you’re just a casual rider, points add up fast, especially when combined with other discounts.
2. Earn Bonus Points Through Amtrak’s Partners
Amtrak has partnered with hotels, car rentals, and even flower delivery services, so you can earn points in your everyday life. A few easy wins:
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Stay at Choice Hotels and earn 250 points per stay.
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Rent with Budget and get 50 points per qualifying day.
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Send flowers with Teleflora and receive a whopping 750 points.
3. Redeem Points for Free or Discounted Travel
Once you’ve built up your points, use them to book future travel. Redemption rates depend on your route, time of day, and season — but combining your points with Amtrak promotions can stretch your rewards even further.
Parents will love this:
👶 Kids under 2 ride free, and children under 12 receive 50% off fares.
4. Travel During Off-Peak Days
Avoiding peak travel days is a classic money-saving strategy — and it works with Amtrak, too. For instance, Amtrak has offered Saturday-only promotions like “Buy One Ticket, Get One Free”.
Example: A two-person trip from New York to Boston on a Saturday? Just $83 total.
➡️ CreditVana Tip: Flexible travel dates can save you more than any coupon code.
5. Bring Friends and Save with the Share Fare
Traveling with a group? Amtrak’s Share Fare gives you increasing discounts with every additional passenger (up to four total):
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Passenger 1: Full price
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Passenger 2: 15% off
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Passenger 3: 60% off
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Passenger 4: 70% off
That’s a huge win for friends, families, or even co-workers heading to the same destination.
6. Book Acela Tickets Early and Save 25%
Want the premium train experience? Acela offers leather seats, fast Wi-Fi, and luggage space for up to four bags. It’s a pricier ride — but you can snag 25% off if you book 7 to 21 days in advance.
These trains run between Washington, D.C. and Boston, making them a favorite for business and leisure travelers in the Northeast.
🧳 Final Thoughts from CreditVana
Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or just want a break from airports, Amtrak is a fantastic alternative — and with the right strategy, it can be incredibly affordable.
From reward points and partner bonuses to group discounts and early booking perks, Amtrak offers plenty of ways to save while traveling in comfort.
